Thousands of NSW residents will be safer in the water this summer, with more than 25,000 lessons delivered under the Minns Labor Government's learn to swim program.
The milestone was celebrated today at Max Parker Leisure Centre, Revesby, where students from Picnic Point High School took part in a session led by provider, Swim Brothers.
The NSW Government's $6 million learn to swim program, provides up to 10 free learn-to-swim and water-safety lessons, and is designed to support those most at risk of drowning.
It focuses on people from low-socioeconomic backgrounds, multicultural communities, First Nations people and people in regional areas.
This program is one of the ways the Minns Labor Government is investing in safer communities and ensuring everyone has the skills to enjoy a safe day by the water.
Further information on the program and a list of providers can be found at: https://www.sport.nsw.gov.au/learn-to-swim-program.
Minister for Sport Steve Kamper:
"Being able to swim at your local pool, beach or river is one of the best things about living in NSW and something many of us take for granted.
"But drowning statistics show that people from low-socioeconomic backgrounds, multicultural communities, First Nations people and people in regional areas. are at a higher risk of drowning.
"The Minns Labor Government's learn to swim program is breaking down the barriers that create safety risks for these groups by providing free learn to swim lessons for the most at-risk members of our community."
Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib said:
"We want everyone to be able to safely enjoy our beaches, rivers and waterways but for many people affordability is a barrier.
"Everyone deserves the chance to feel confident and safe near the water, no matter their background or postcode. This program is giving people the skills those skills.
"25,000 lessons delivered is a major milestone! It's fantastic to be here today with Swim Brothers to celebrate how strongly communities are embracing this program."
